Intel released two new Desktop Board Extreme Series motherboards based on the Z68 chipset, supporting Core processors in the LGA1155 package, the DZ68ZV and DZ68BC. The DZ68ZV uses the same exact PCB as the DP67BG, replacing the P67 PCH with Z68 (they're pin-compatible). It lacks display connectivity. The only plus here is support for Intel Smart Response Technology. It uses a 8-phase active-swiching/load-balancing digital PWM power circuitry for the CPU, and quite a few overclocking features. Expansion slots include two PCI-Express 2.0 x16, three PCIe x1, and two PCI. Storage connectivity includes two SATA 6 Gb/s four SATA 3 Gb/s and one eSATA 3 Gb/s. Then there's 8-channel HD audio, USB 3.0, and Intel GbE controller.

The DZ68BC is a completely new design that is tailored for the Z68 chipset, complete with overclocking features, as well as display connectivity. The CPU is powered by an 8-phase digital PWM VRM, makes use of improved VRM cooling, expansion slots include two PCI-Express 2.0 x16, three PCI and two PCIe x1, storage connectors consist of four SATA 6 Gb/s, four SATA 3 Gb/s, and two eSATA. There's 8-channel HD audio, Intel GbE connections, display IO that includes DVI, D-Sub, and HDMI, USB 3.0, and possibly FireWire. Lucid Virtu comes bundled, that provides active switching between the integrated and discrete GPUs.

Bernard, you are right about the PCI-E spec, it should be two x8 or one x16. However, I am not sure if there is an error with the SATA 6Gbps ports. the link you provided is for DZ68ZV which rightly has 2 SATA 6Gbps. But the article also mentions another board, DZ68BC, which has Four Serial ATA 6.0 Gb/s ports , Four Serial ATA 3.0 Gb/s ports & one eSATA 6.0 Gb/s. you can check this link: Intel DZ68BC
I do wonder if the DZ68BC board has an additional chipset for the extra 2 SATA 6Gbps ports since Sandy bridge platforms natively support only 2 SATA 6Gbps.

right! according to the source of news > VR Zone - it says "The DZ68ZV is in actual fact using the same PCB as the DP67BG motherboard....".

the site(VR Zone) also mentions "The DZ68BC is available right now for around US$225.." and 2 additional new boards in the pipeline DZ68PL and DZ68AF> I hope one of these is of microATX ;) or even miniITX form factor! (i know this may seem crazy :rolleyes:, but when there are extreme SFF cases like Silverstone SG-07 & Lian-li PC-Q08 with respectable cooling, why not have a compact gaming setup).